Extra patrols have been put on in Helensville, Kumeū and Huapai, police said on Tuesday. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Police say thieves appear to be targeting vehicles in rural northwest Auckland, urging locals to avoid leaving valuables in them.
Extra patrols have been put on in Helensville, Kumeū and Huapai, police said on Tuesday, after an increase in reports of dishonesty offences and vehicle crime.
"We're actively following up these reports and as part of this response we have patrolling in place around the times when this offending is happening," Senior Sergeant Roger Small said.
In addition to the thefts, there have been incidents involving suspicious vehicles the past two nights, he said.
Just before 2am on Tuesday, a vehicle "with numerous occupants" was seen travelling toward Helensville on State Highway 16.
"The vehicle was signalled to stop, but on seeing the red and blue lights accelerated away at a very high speed," Small said.
After spikes were deployed, the vehicle came to a stop in Helensville and impounded. All those inside - including the 17-year-old driver - were taken into custody.
And just after 2am on Monday, a vehicle was seen by officers speeding through roadworks near Helensville. Police decided against chasing the vehicle, which was later seen heading towards Wainui.
"Follow up enquiries are being made with the vehicle's registered owner as to who was driving the vehicle at the time."
Small said it was a reminder not to leave valuables in your car.
"We're actively following up these reports and as part of this response we have patrolling in place around the times when this offending is happening."